Request Speed Limit Review - New South Memphis

Transportation Tennessee 3 Minutes Read · published February 08, 2026 Flag of Tennessee

In New South Memphis, Tennessee, residents and neighborhood groups can ask the city to review posted speed limits where safety concerns exist. This guide explains who to contact, the official procedures to request a review, likely timelines, enforcement roles, and what to expect after a speed study is requested.

Overview

The city evaluates speed using engineering studies, traffic counts, and safety data. Requests typically go to the Traffic Engineering or Transportation department; see the official Traffic Engineering contact and guidance pages for submission details and local policy.Traffic Engineering[1]

Start by documenting location, time of day, and any crash history.

When to request a review

  • Locations with repeated crashes or near schools or parks.
  • Streets where observed operating speeds seem higher than the posted limit.
  • After new developments or changed traffic patterns.

Typical process and timeline

A typical municipal speed limit review includes: initial complaint intake, field speed and volume studies, engineering analysis against state and local standards, and a written decision. Specific thresholds and study methods are set by city traffic policy or the municipal code.Memphis Code of Ordinances (traffic)[2]

  • Intake and initial review: often 2–4 weeks.
  • Field studies (speed/volume): commonly 1–2 weeks to schedule, with 1–2 weeks of data collection.
  • Engineering analysis and final decision: often 2–8 weeks after data collection.
Timelines vary by workload and season.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of posted speed limits is handled by the police department; civil or administrative fines and procedures derive from local traffic ordinances and state law. Where exact fine schedules or escalating penalties for repeated speed violations are not listed on the cited municipal pages, the guide notes "not specified on the cited page" and points to the enforcing office for up-to-date figures.Memphis Code of Ordinances (traffic)[2]

  • Monetary fines: amounts not specified on the cited page; contact the police or municipal court for the current schedule.
  • Escalation: first, repeat, or continuing offence ranges not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: citations, court appearance requirements, and possible vehicle-related orders may apply per local court practice.
  • Enforcer: Memphis Police Department Traffic Unit handles enforcement and issuing citations.
  • Inspection and complaint pathway: submit a request or complaint to Traffic Engineering or file a non-emergency police report for dangerous driving.
  • Appeals/review: contest citations in municipal court; time limits for appeals or court appearance not specified on the cited page.
  • Defences/discretion: officers and engineers may exercise discretion; formal variances or temporary speed adjustments may be available via Traffic Engineering policies or permit processes.

Applications & Forms

Many municipalities accept online speed study or traffic concern forms via the Traffic Engineering or Transportation department. For New South Memphis (as part of the City of Memphis jurisdiction), an online contact form and formal request procedures are provided by Traffic Engineering; specific named forms or application numbers are not specified on the cited page.Traffic Engineering[1]

How the city decides

  • Engineering standards: measured 85th-percentile speed, roadway geometry, and crash history.
  • Safety context: proximity to schools, transit stops, and pedestrian activity.
  • State law and local code: city policies must align with state statutes and local ordinances.Memphis Code of Ordinances (traffic)[2]
Engineering data, not individual speed observations, primarily determines posted limits.

Action steps for residents

  • Document location, dates/times, and photos of signage or traffic patterns.
  • File an official request with Traffic Engineering via the city contact page.Traffic Engineering[1]
  • If there is an immediate hazard, report to Memphis Police non-emergency dispatch.
  • If dissatisfied with a decision, ask Traffic Engineering about the internal review process and municipal court options for enforcement disputes.

FAQ

How long does a speed study take?
From intake to final decision typically 4–12 weeks, depending on workload and season.
Can I request lower speeds near a school?
Yes, school zones are a common basis for speed reviews; include evidence of pedestrian activity and school schedules.
Who enforces posted limits?
Memphis Police Department enforces speed limits; Traffic Engineering manages studies and signage.

How-To

  1. Gather evidence: photos, videos, witness statements, and crash history.
  2. Submit an official request to Traffic Engineering using the city contact form with exact location and reason.
  3. Await scheduling: the department will schedule speed/volume counts and notify you of results.
  4. If the decision is unfavorable, request the engineering report and ask about re-evaluation or appeals.

Key Takeaways

  • Official studies drive speed-setting decisions, not individual petitions.
  • Contact Traffic Engineering first; the Memphis Police Department enforces limits.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Memphis - Traffic Engineering contact and guidance
  2. [2] Memphis Code of Ordinances - traffic regulations

Categories

General Governance and Administration Public Safety Public Health and Welfare Land Use and Zoning Housing and Building Standards Transportation Environmental Protection Parks and Public Spaces Business and Consumer Protection Taxation and Finance Labor and Employment Education Civil Rights and Equity Elections and Campaign Finance Events and Special Uses Signs and Advertising Utilities and Infrastructure Technology and Data